Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman was one of 11 institutions of higher learning (IHLs) to receive an award from YB Dato' Sri Dr. Hj. Shafie Bin Hj. Mohd. Salleh, Minister of Higher Education at the IPTS Night 2005 on 20 December 2005 in the presence of about 1000 dinner guests and dignitaries. Among the VIP guests present were senior personnel from the Ministry as well as Vice-Chancellors from the public universities. The MOHE awards were presented in recognition of the achievements and contributions to education in Malaysia by the private IHLs.

UTAR's award belonged to the category "Kecemerlangan Peningkatan Prestasi Pengambilan Pelajar (2003-2005) IPTS Bertaraf Universiti" (Excellence in Increasing Student Enrolment (2003-2005) for IPTS with University Status).

UTAR President, YBhg Tan Sri Datuk Dr Ng Lay Swee said, "We are very honoured to have been recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education. We are also glad that the infrastructure, facilities, staff and support services have been expanding proportionately in tandem with the increase in student intake. Our goal has always been to go the extra mile in our effort to assist the students, for them to excel in their academic, professional and all-round competencies."